The upper chamber of Congress on this Tuesday passed without delay to a bill that will force the release of official records related to the deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, after a overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives and a shift by the president and his Republican allies. Trump's team changed course after an extended period of trying to block the bipartisan effort involving a scandal that has dogged the president since his comeback to the White House.
Unanimous Passage in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, accelerating the process. Hours earlier, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a 427-1 tally.
The public have endured sufficient delay. The survivors have suffered long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader said in a address to the chamber on Tuesday, before requesting the Senate to adopt it by consent. “Reveal the truth. Let transparency reign.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next heads to Donald Trump for his endorsement. The president indicated on Monday that he would endorse the legislation.
Even though Trump has for an extended period downplayed the controversy over the official management of the scandal as a “political stunt”, he voiced approval for the House bill over the weekend, and announced he would approve it if it comes to him.
Support and Opposition
Democrats, along with victims and their advocates who were seated in a viewing area, applauded after the bill was enacted. The sole “no” vote came from Clay Higgins, who said he worried the measure would disclose personal information of witnesses, persons of interest and others involved in the investigation.
Additional News Updates
- The president is under fire for referring to a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a clash onboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge blocks ‘discriminatory’ maps in the state of Texas that awarded Republicans extra districts.
- Many of US education agency’s responsibilities transferred to other branches as part of administration efforts.
- Mass federal immigration sweeps move to Raleigh, with authorities noting ongoing activities.
